Murder Afoot !

Who doesn't love a murder mystery?

It was “Murder Afoot”, at the Drill Hall Chepstow and CHAOS Music and Drama company were keeping everyone in suspense. The audience were promised a murder mystery comedy with many twists and turns and in the time-honoured tradition, the Cast did not let us down.

“The scene was set”, as the saying goes, and my congratulations must be given for the outstanding design of the perfect stage setting. A great deal of skill and effort had gone into producing a very imaginative and perfectly practical dramatic backdrop, that was so important to the success of the play. This must also include the successful choice of wardrobe. The whole visual effect made such an impact on the smooth movement of the production. Well done to the production team and Beth Blanchard [wardrobe] and Roger Preece for set and props.

James Wallace as Malcolm Platt, made a significant impact on the production , showing outstanding professional skills. Such a natural performance must be congratulated. He made the part his own in every movement.

It was a pleasure to watch the building of the character of Livia the maid, played by Marrianne Bowen. This was excellent casting. Her characterisation was so compelling and didn’t faulter.

Phillippa Hickey as Miss Grimlish gave us a character to remember. Superb facial expression giving nothing away. She could certainly hold a secret. A lovely performance, well done.

Harriet Dodwell Morrison as Penny Platt and Edward Preece as Thomas Tottering worked so very well together. They looked very comfortable and natural in their roles and the result was to make their characters very believable.

Hazel Guppy as Collette La Mare is a stage natural, and her performance was quite unique. The characterisation never faltered; this was a very confident performance in every way.

Every “who dun it” needs a body and Dylan Michael as Titus Platt gave a very strong performance, shall we say; right to the end. As required his characterisation was very stylish and very confident. Well done.

A lovely portrayal of the lowly Personal Assistant Hedda Noble by Natalie Bowen. The emphasis on the character was very well-balanced moving from mild mannered and insignificant , to a show of strength and purpose.

Well done to Amanda Osmond playing the male role of Dick Drake. Not an easy task but certainly achieved with style.

A spirited performance by Jake Brice as Inspector Bullock. Was he part of the plot ? or the answer to the mystery? Well done for keeping us guessing.

This was an excellent Cast and the play was a big hit with the audience. My congratulations to Lou Reynolds as a first time Director. The production was highly entertaining and looked wonderful. The results clearly showed a talent for Directing and I wish you good luck in your next enterprise. It was a thoroughly good yarn and a great evening’s entertainment. Well done to you all.

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